Peptides 101: What are they?

Peptides are sequences of two or more amino acids linked together in a specific order to perform vital functions in the skin by facilitating communication between cells. This cellular communication enhances and stimulates various cellular activities.

Through these interactions, peptides can promote processes such as collagen and elastin production, tissue repair, and even the relaxation of muscle contractions. Although peptides are naturally present in the skin, their production declines with age, making the application of topical peptides crucial for maintaining youthful skin.

Understanding each type of peptide and its specific benefits can be overwhelming, but we're here to simplify it for you.

Understanding peptides is almost equivalent to exploring the basic building blocks of life:

• Amino acids exist as individual molecules.
• Peptides are typically short chains composed of 2 to 50 amino acids.
• Proteins are generally longer chains, consisting of 50 or more amino acids.

Here's a very interesting fact: despite peptides often being considered novelty, they have been crucial in medical advancements for over a century. Consider insulin and penicillin – both peptides that have significantly impacted modern healthcare

The most well-known cosmetic peptides

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide essential for skin health. As we get older, the levels of this peptide diminish, making it a beneficial component in skincare regimens. GHK-Cu is recognised for its ability to:

• Enhance collagen production, leading to improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles.
• Encourage hair growth and result in thicker, healthier hair.
• Accelerate wound healing and tissue regeneration.
• Offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting and soothing the skin.

AHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex consisting of three amino acids. Its biological properties make it a superb option for skincare and hair care. This peptide is renowned for its potential to:

• Stimulate collagen synthesis.
• Improve skin hydration.
• Support wound healing.
• Offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting and soothing the skin.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 is a synthetic peptide frequently found in skincare products for its anti-aging benefits. Originating from natural proteins, it functions by targeting facial muscles to:

• Diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Enhance skin elasticity and firmness.
• Offer a wrinkle-relaxing effect.

Weight loss peptides have gained significant attention in recent years for their alleged ability to help with fat loss and overall weight management. This increase in hormone levels helps accelerate metabolism, leading to enhanced fat burning and improved energy levels.

By increasing hormone levels, these peptides help to boost the process by which fat is broken down in the body. This results in a reduction of body fat, particularly in stubborn areas like the abdomen and thighs.

Muscle-building peptides are sometimes used by athletes and bodybuilders aiming to increase muscle mass and improve performance. These peptides may help increase appetite, which can be beneficial for individuals looking to consume the extra calories necessary for muscle gain.

Some scientists say that they also help to reduce inflammation and promote faster healing of injuries, which can prevent training interruptions.

Injury recovery peptides are used by some athletes and individuals recovering from surgery or sports-related trauma. Two peptides that stand out in this category are BPC-157 and IGF-1 LR3. They are known for their healing properties, particularly in the repair of muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries.